Southeast Asia’s rapid expansion of electric vehicle adoption is raising concerns over affordability, as rising costs threaten to push the technology out of reach for many drivers. With governments and automakers accelerating the shift away from internal combustion engines, analysts warn that price hikes for EVs—driven by battery expenses and import duties—could widen the gap between wealthy and lower-income consumers. The region’s push for cleaner transport may clash with economic realities if subsidies and incentives fail to keep prices competitive. Industry observers question whether the transition can succeed without addressing the financial barriers facing potential buyers.
Southeast Asia's EV race risks pricing out drivers Nikkei Asia
